Gina Davis, [email protected], 202-864-2934
Morgan Brill, [email protected] 845-596-5328
WASHINGTON – ZERO TO THREE, a national nonprofit dedicated to ensuring all babies and toddlers have a strong start in life, released the following statement from Rahil D. Briggs, PsyD, national director, HealthySteps, in response to the recent change in federal Hepatitis B vaccination recommendations for newborns:
“Babies deserve every chance to grow up healthy and thrive. The Hepatitis B vaccine has been given at birth for decades, and it’s safe. It protects infants from a serious virus that can cause lifelong infection and liver disease. Vaccinating babies has helped prevent millions of infections and saved children from unnecessary suffering.
“Parents need clear, science-based information – not mixed messages – when making decisions about their baby’s health. Doctors, nurses and other pediatric and perinatal providers are trusted guides. They listen, answer questions and explain the facts so families can make informed choices.
“Even as federal guidance shifts, the medical and public health community still agrees that the Hepatitis B vaccine at birth is safe and adds an important layer of protection for newborns. We stand with and support the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics that all newborns continue to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine, and urge parents to discuss this vaccine with their pediatrician or trusted health care provider to get the information they need to feel confident about their baby’s care.
“Right now, families need clarity. Health leaders and institutions must support clinicians with clear, consistent, evidence‑informed guidance to share with parents. Babies and families are counting on us to put their health and well-being first.”
